In this episode, Ryan and Brian explore the U.S. national debt as it approaches a staggering $36 trillion—a figure that has nearly quadrupled since before the 2008 global financial crisis. With the federal debt growing every year since 2001, it’s a topic that continues to spark heated debates over budget deficits, the debt ceiling, government shutdowns, and stimulus spending.

Now that the election is behind us, the focus shifts to the incoming administration’s policy proposals and cabinet nominations. But what does the growing national debt mean for the economy, markets, and your investment strategy?

We break down:

• The history and rapid growth of the national debt.
• The economic and market implications of government spending.
• How investors can stay focused on long-term drivers amid fiscal uncertainty.

Tune in to gain clarity on this complex topic and learn how to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

**Connect with Us:**
- Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroup
- Subscribe to the Casual Friday - Financial Insights podcast: Apple and Spotify
- Share your stories or questions: info@FordFG.com
- Find us on the Web: FordFG.com

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.

There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.

The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

Send in your questions!

In this episode, we delve into the latest insights on retirement planning amidst rising living costs and inflation. Here’s what we cover:

1. Current Inflation and Social Security Adjustments:
- 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA): A 2.5% increase for Social Security reflects slowing inflation, down from higher increases in recent years.
- Impact on Retirees: While the COLA helps, it's still challenging to keep up with the high costs of essentials, particularly healthcare and housing.

2. Withdrawal Strategies and the 4% Rule:
- Evaluating the 4% Rule: We examine the historical basis of this popular retirement withdrawal rate, noting that only once in the 1960s did it dip to 4% for balanced portfolios.
- Market Conditions’ Influence: Market variability underscores the importance of a flexible withdrawal strategy, as safe withdrawal rates can fluctuate with economic cycles.

3. Increasing Life Expectancies and Longevity Risk:
- Life Expectancy Trends: Today’s retirees may live well into their 90s, leading to what’s known as "longevity risk," where the risk of outliving one’s savings intensifies.
- Balancing Growth and Income: Strategies for ensuring portfolios generate growth and income to maintain quality of life over longer retirement horizons.

4. Key Takeaways:
- Inflation remains a challenge despite recent deceleration.
- Retirees must manage longevity risk through growth-oriented investments alongside traditional income-focused strategies.
- Adapting withdrawal rates and building resilient portfolios can help support a fulfilling, secure retirement.

Let’s break down these concepts with expert insights and actionable steps for today’s retirees and those preparing for their retirement journey. Tune in to navigate the financial landscape with confidence!

**Connect with Us:**
- Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroup
- Subscribe to the Casual Friday - Financial Insights podcast: Apple and Spotify
- Share your stories or questions: info@FordFG.com
- Find us on the Web: FordFG.com

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.

There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.

The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

Send in your questions!

In this episode, we explore the effects of rising and falling interest rates on bonds and money market funds. We discuss:

• Bonds as a Hedge: Are government bonds have become a less reliable hedge in volatile markets
• Money Market Funds: The behavior of money market fund assets following the first Fed rate cut and historical trends.
• Equities Outlook: Are U.S. equities and sectors poised for growth as inflation cools?

**Connect with Us:**
- Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fordfinancialgroup
- Subscribe to the Casual Friday - Financial Insights podcast: Apple and Spotify
- Share your stories or questions: info@FordFG.com
- Find us on the Web: FordFG.com

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.

There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial professional prior to investing. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk. Indexes are unmanaged statistical composites and cannot be invested into directly. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any investment and do not reflect fees, expenses, or sales charges. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted.

The advisors of Ford Financial Group are Registered Representatives with and securities are offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Perennial Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Ford Financial Group and Perennial Investment Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial. Ford Financial Group, Perennial Investment Advisors, and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice or services.

Send in your questions!